Page 428 of Axis of Fire

"Sometimes the network mistakes magical surges for electrical disturbances."

I nodded slowly before asking the question I wasn't sure I wanted answered.

"How did they tell you?"

His jaw tightened.

I knew instantly I shouldn't have asked.

But I couldn't stop now.

"Airis."

He remained silent for several long seconds.

Then, finally...

"During the interrogation."

This time...

I was the one who had no answer.

I wasn't naïve.

I knew Airis wasn't some harmless hero.

I knew what he did wasn't gentle work.

And yet...

Something inside me shifted.

I just didn't know what.

"Your control has improved," he said, deliberately changing the subject. "Was my absence really that beneficial?"

I stayed silent.

I couldn't bring myself to admit that I'd wanted him to be proud of me.

"It wasn't intentional."

I shrugged, forcing an easy smile.

"It just... happened."

I hesitated before adding,

"And... thank you for the letters."

My gaze dropped to the ground.

"They helped more than you probably realize."

The words waiting inside me suddenly felt impossibly heavy.

But if I wanted any chance at happiness...